and so for those of us who were fortunate enough to have time or energy or moneys to give back, you know, there is a lot that needs to be fulfilled. >> reporter: that need continues to grow. the food bank said they have seen a 100% increase in the req assistance. they say that increase is due to job loss, the economy, high cost of housing, and a number of other issues. the agency said volunteers are essential and helping them fill the needs. >> different members of our organization are used to give them back mentoring and we have to do something as a collective group to put the university of maryland out there and show we care about the community. >> reporter: the food bank distribute -- distributes 500,000 pops of food each week and they could not help the thousands in need if they didn't get the help they need from the volunteers. >> to be able to give something of our time to help people who are in need is what is critical. and you see it every day as you drive to work. you see people and you your going to work. you need to take the time to volunteer and give something to the communit